1 Real Time Integrated Mine Ventilation Monitoring

Software has been developed to link real time information generated by underground mine ventilation airflow monitoring sensors into a network simulation program to undertake network simulations and allow interpretation of key system data and operational changes. Results are used in the development of a computerized monitoring and simulation system to provide immediate or real time data on air behaviour within each branch within an underground mine ventilation network through linking of sensors to the ventilation network simulation software. The outcome of the project is an online system which can report changes in the mine ventilation system, allow causes of changes to be isolated and rectified, improve balancing of available air throughout the mine, allow improved approaches to regulator setting and dispense with much of the labour used for underground ventilation measurement. The main work activities involved in the research program have involved examination and modelling of regulators used in two Queensland mining (coal and metalliferous) environments, software modification and considerable mine site testing and optimising activities. The mathematical modelling of airflow through operating mine regulators was an important part of the project and this aspect is discussed. 1